From Blackbuck to Asiatic Lion: Meet the state animals of India

New Delhi: India is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various animal species spread across its states and union territories. The tiger is India’s national animal. It represents grace, strength, agility, and immense power. The scientific name for the tiger is Panthera tigris.

India’s diverse flora and fauna are intricately connected to the country’s weather and climate conditions, and strict bans on the killing of state and distinct animals exist in many regions.

Each state and union territory has carefully chosen its own representative animal, reflecting its unique ecological landscape. From the Blackbuck in Andhra Pradesh to the recently designated Snow Leopard in Ladakh, India’s remarkable flora and fauna enhance its natural beauty and vibrancy.

In this article, we will list the animals that represent India’s states and union territories.

List of State Animals

List of Animals of Union Territories

Blackbuck

The blackbuck, also known as the Indian antelope, is an endangered animal found in India and Nepal. When born, it is light-coloured, but as it ages, it turns black. Male animals have horns, and females do not.

Mithun

The gayal, also called Mithun, is a type of domesticated bull. It comes from a mix of wild gaur and domestic cattle. People ritually slaughter or butcher them for meat.

One-horned Rhino

These rhinos are known for having a single horn on their nose. They are large animals in Asia, second only to the Asian elephant.

Gaur

The gaur is a big, wild Indian bull native to South and Southeast Asia and is in danger.

Wild Buffalo

Wild buffalos are mainly found in Chhattisgarh and Assam, India. Unfortunately, they are almost extinct in Chhattisgarh, with only 25 to 35 buffaloes left.

Nilgai

The nilgai is the largest type of Asian antelope in northern India. Its name comes from its blue body.

Asiatic Lion

In Gir, Gujarat is the only lion sanctuary in India, home to the majestic Asiatic lion. Indian lions are smaller and have less mane compared to their African counterparts.

Snow Leopard

Snow leopards live in most of India’s eastern and western Himalayas but also in certain areas: Hemis, Gangotri, Khangchendzonga, and the Great Himalayan National Parks.

Elephant

Elephants are common in Southern India. While they are primarily wild, some are domesticated for transportation or entertainment.

Swamp deer

Known as Barasingha, swamp deer are different from other deer because their antlers have more than three times the points. Swamp deer is only found in India and Nepal.

Giant Squirrel

Giant squirrels are multi-coloured tree squirrels with long tails. They eat fruits, nuts, and insects and jump from tree to tree.

Nilgiri Tahr

The Nilgiri tahr is a rare mountain animal with rough fur and a stiff mane. It is found in the high mountains of southern India.

 India boasts diverse wildlife, providing habitats for numerous large and small animals. Although the tiger is well-known as the national animal, it is less commonly known that each state and union territory has its own designated state animal.   knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge